If your business entails picking up or delivering items that require cold temperatures – think food or cologne – you may have to invest in a refrigerated van. This will allow you to place the goods conveniently in the back of the vehicle, and they will stay fresh until they get to their destination. It is crucial that you regularly maintain the van inside and out, most especially the refrigerated section, so as to avoid spoiling the goods.

Here are the four most important steps you can take to keep your refrigerated van in great shape:

1. Check the thermostat frequently.

Among the most important parts of any refrigerated van is the thermostat. This helps to control the temperature in the refrigerated area of the van, preventing it from becoming very warm. Should there be any issues with the thermostat, you could have cause spoiling of expensive meat or flower arrangements. Be sure to check the thermostat from time to time, not only to make sure that it is at the right temperature, but to see if it is generally working properly. Some signs of thermostat problems include the temperature being stuck at a certain position, goods getting frozen, or signs of ice around the van’s walls where there weren’t any before.

2. Organize your goods.

To prevent cross-contamination and premature spoilage of goods, you should also take your time in organizing the items in your van. With frequent maintenance checks, you can rearrange goods accordingly so their ideal storage conditions remain. Furthermore, cleaning the refrigerated van’s interior will be easier for you.

Here are some tips to help you organize your goods:
> Nothing should ever be placed on the floor to avoid pest infestation and spoilage.

> Produce must be kept away from fans at all times. This can ruin fresh produce very quickly.

> Be sure to leave adequate space in between items.

> Store any meat on the opposite side of other food in the van, such as dairy products, food, etc.

3. Scan the van before each delivery.

It’s never safe to to assume that the van is working well and just store your goods in the refrigerated portion. Before the van leaves, it has to be inspected carefully.

Make sure there are no cracks, indicating insulation issues; locks and seals must all be in good working condition; and the temperature must be set at the correct levels. Check all of the goods as well, ensuring freshness.

4. Have the van professionally inspected regularly.

Don’t ever underestimate the value of professional inspections. However, you must hire someone who doesn’t only work with vans, but with refrigerated vans specifically. This person should be an expert not only in the mechanical system of the vehicle, but he must also know how to inspect the van refrigerator’s quality and overall condition.